Ross Geiger’s NBA Opening Night Game Predictions

October 27th, 2009 NBA Game Predictions

Boston Celtics at Cleveland Cavaliers

Boston visiting Cleveland will be the biggest game of the night due to large part off both team’s moves over this offseason. This will be the NBA world’s first look at both Rasheed Wallace and Shaquille O’Neal on their new championship contending teams. The Celtics come into Cleveland by trying to get off on the right foot, but to send a message early that the chase for the #1 spots in the Eastern Conference will be a battle until the end. Also, keep in mind the Celtics can very quickly ruin the Cavs chances of having even the slightest chance of creating another undefeated at home streak. With all that being said, I see no way the Celtics pull this one out on the road, not on opening night in Cleveland, LeBron, Shaq, and company will not disappoint though the game should come down to final few minutes of action.

Cavs- 109 Celtics-102

Washington Wizards at Dallas Mavericks

While it won’t be named, biggest game of the night, it’s the most interesting game of the night. Two teams that have made drastic improvements over the past few months, specifically the Washington Wizards, they must answer the question can they be for real? On paper the Wizards most certainly are, adding depth to team who could’ve competed in the East last year if it wasn’t for big name injuries. While the spotlights will be on Gilbert Arena’s return and Shawn Marion’s new look in Dallas, keep an eye out on two key guys on their respected squads that are crucial to success. Randy Foye and Drew Gooden are needed to help make big contributions this year, many games throughout this year could potentially come down to how well they perform, impacting the result of the game. Tonight, the Mavs who are tough at home inside the American Airlines Center won’t let their home crowd down.

Mavs- 113 Wizards- 104

Houston Rockets at Portland Trailblazers

I don’t know how long the Portland fans have been counting down the days on the calendar for the regular season opener but I can imagine it’s been going on for a few months. Well it’s finally here Rip City, with new jerseys and all, the young Trailblazers are ready to fire up the season taking on the short handed Houston Rockets. The Rockets will put up a fight for the first half, but I’d imagine their lack of depth will be showcased during the middle of the third quarter. This is a great first game for Portland, allowing them to build a bit of momentum early and that’s always good for a young team.

Portland- 104 Rockets-91

LA Clippers at LA Lakers

It should be a star-studded crowd in the City of Angels tonight as both Los Angeles teams face one another on opening night. There’s no question, the Lakers run the city and the Clippers come into this game as big underdogs. For the Clips, like always even to start a fresh season, they have nothing to lose, for the Lakers they have EVERYTHING to lose. Baron Davis and Marcus Camby will be the two keys to the Clippers withstanding a chance. Camby who like always is still battling an injury and Baron Davis who’s supposedly back to full health and the best shape of his life. It ought to be an interesting matchup but as expected the contending world champs will prevail.

LA Lakers- 114 LA Clippers- 99

3 Things Worth Noting For Tonight’s Matchups

1. The Official NBA Referees are back

2. Top Pick Blake Griffin is out for up to 6 weeks

3. Be sure to observe the Cavs new pregame ritual featuring the Big Witness and the King himself